Pirates lefty Dumatrait to start for Spikes today

See a major league pitcher on the hill tonight as Pittsburgh Pirates left-handed pitcher Phil Dumatrait will become the second major leaguer to make a rehab appearance with the State College Spikes in franchise history on Sunday when he starts against the Batavia Muckdogs (St. Louis Cardinals) at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park. Game time is scheduled for 6:05 p.m.

Dumatrait is making his second rehab start of the year after being placed on the 60-day Disabled List at the start of the season when he suffered setbacks in his recovery from arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder. The Bakersfield, CA native went four shutout innings for the Gulf Coast League Pirates against the GCL Braves in a start on Tuesday. Dumatrait went 3-4 with a 5.26 ERA for Pittsburgh in 2008 in 21 total appearances, including 11 starts.

Dumatrait's start will be the second time a Pirates player has appeared for the Spikes in franchise history. Zach Duke started for the Spikes at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on September 6, 2007, earning the win after 5 2/3 innings of work against the Mahoning Valley Scrappers (Cleveland Indians). Duke allowed one run on three hits and two walks while hitting one batter and striking out three.

While you're watching a major leaguer on the mound Enjoy plenty of great activities at the park as well on a Summer Blast-Off Sunday. A fantastic postgame fireworks display will light up the skies over Happy Valley, and you can bring your gloves out for a Pre-Game Catch on the Field. Plus, you'll be able to watch mascots from all around the Centre Region join Ike the Spike and the Nittany Bank Nookie Monster for a jamboree at the ballpark during Mascot Mania! Kids will also be able to run the bases after the game on Huntingdon County Night at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.